# 🎄🍞 Christmas Cranberry Walnut Bread: A Festive Delight! 🍞🎄
## Introduction
Unleash the spirit of Christmas with a slice of our homemade Cranberry Walnut Bread. Radiating the warmth of the holiday season, every bite invites a burst of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, all embedded within a moist, fragrant loaf. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or paired with your favorite festive dinner, this bread is the epitome of holiday cheer.
## Why make this recipe
Baking at home is therapeutic, and what better than making your own Christmas bread? This recipe ticks all the boxes for a quintessentially festive pastry:
– It is easy and quick, requiring little prep time and basic pantry ingredients.
– It bursts with healthful fresh cranberries and nutritious walnuts.
– It is a versatile treat, pairing well with both sweets and savories.
## How to make Christmas Cranberry Walnut Bread
### Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
### Directions :
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the orange juice, melted butter, beaten egg, and orange zest.
4. Combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until moist.
5. Fold in the cranberries and walnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.
7. Allow the bread to cool before cutting and serving.
## How to serve Christmas Cranberry Walnut Bread
Slice it up and serve with a warm beverage of choice for a perfect breakfast. For a savory twist, pair it with your festive roasts and stews.
## How to store Christmas Cranberry Walnut Bread
This bread can be stored at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil or in a bread box for 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it and save for up to a week.
## Tips to Make Christmas Cranberry Walnut Bread
1. If using frozen cranberries, do not defrost. Add them directly to prevent too much juice from seeping out.
2. Toast the walnuts lightly for a richer, nuttier flavor.
3. To ensure your bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it’s done.
## Variations
– Add a festive essence by incorporating a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.
– A cup of white chocolate chips will sweeten your loaf and complement the tart cranberries.
## FAQs
**Q1: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?**
A: Yes, dried cranberries can be used but the bread might lack some tartness that fresh cranberries provide.
**Q2: Can I use a different type of nut?**
A: Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
**Q3: Which type of sugar is best for this recipe?**
A: Granulated white sugar works best, but you can also use light brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Thus, add a sprinkle of merriment to your holiday baking with this simple, scrumptious Christmas Cranberry Walnut Bread! It’s perfect for sharing and gifting to extend the joy of the season. Enjoy! 🎄❤️